World Bank Debars Two Nigerian Firms and CEO for Fraud and Corruption

By DAYO ADESULU

The World Bank Group has imposed a 30-month debarment on two Nigerian companies, Viva Atlantic Limited and Technology House Limited, along with their Managing Director and CEO, Norman Bwuruk Didam, for involvement in fraudulent, collusive, and corrupt practices related to the National Social Safety Nets Project (NSSNP).

Key Findings of Misconduct

The World Bank’s investigation uncovered serious violations of its Anticorruption Framework during the 2018 procurement process, which included:

• Misrepresentation of Conflict of Interest: The firms concealed conflicts of interest in their bid submissions.
• Accessing Confidential Tender Information: Unauthorized access to sensitive information with the assistance of public officials.
• Falsification of Documents: Submission of fabricated company experience records and fake manufacturer’s authorization letters.
• Corrupt Practices: Providing inducements to project officials to gain unfair advantage.

World Bank Statement

In its official announcement, the World Bank emphasized that the violations by Viva Atlantic Limited, Technology House Limited, and Mr. Didam directly contravened the principles of its Anticorruption Framework.

The statement noted:

“Further, Viva Atlantic Limited and Mr. Didam misrepresented the company’s experience and submitted falsified manufacturer’s authorization letters, as well as offered and provided things of value to project public officials. These actions were fraudulent and corrupt practices.”

Sanctions Imposed

The 30-month debarment prohibits the firms and Mr. Didam from:

• Participating in projects or operations financed by the World Bank Group.
• Accessing opportunities within the World Bank’s procurement network during the sanction period.

Additionally, the debarment is subject to the following conditions:

1. Admission of Wrongdoing: Viva Atlantic Limited, Technology House Limited, and Didam have admitted to the violations.
2. Integrity Compliance Program: The firms and CEO must adhere to rigorous compliance conditions before being eligible for re-engagement in World Bank-financed activities.

Implications for Future Projects

The sanctions underscore the World Bank’s commitment to enforcing strict accountability in its funded projects and protecting public funds from misuse. It sends a strong message to organizations involved in development projects to uphold transparency, integrity, and ethical standards.

Context: The National Social Safety Nets Project (NSSNP)

The NSSNP is a World Bank-funded initiative in Nigeria aimed at:

• Reducing poverty.
• Providing targeted support to vulnerable groups.
• Strengthening social safety net systems.

The misconduct in the NSSNP procurement process highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring ethical practices in large-scale development projects.

Conclusion

The World Bank’s actions serve as a reminder of the consequences of corruption and the importance of adherence to global anti-corruption frameworks. The imposition of a 30-month debarment coupled with mandatory compliance measures reflects the institution’s unwavering stance against unethical practices in its projects.